Two dead, deputy injured in domestic situation in Perkinston

Two people are dead and a deputy was injured Sunday afternoon in what MBI called a domestic situation in Perkinston.

Stone County Coroner Wayne Flurry identified the deceased as 52-year-old Perry Stephens of Benndale and 44-year-old Kimberly Kennedy of Pass Christian.

Mississippi Bureau of Investigation said the officer-involved shooting involved a deputy from the Stone County Sheriff’s Office.

The deputy was responding to a domestic call at the Dollar General on Highway 49 about 4:15 p.m. When he arrived, the subject in the store, identified as Stephens fired, hitting the deputy in the left side of his face.

The deputy returned fire and a brief gunfight ensued.

MBI said it is believed Stephens, died of  a self-inflicted gunshot. Kennedy was found dead at the scene. MBI said the information is preliminary and could change as the investigation continues.

Officials at Stone County Sheriff’s Office said the deputy had a laceration to his left cheek but is expected to make a full recovery.

This is the 10th officer-involved shooting of 2024.

MBI is currently assessing this critical incident and gathering evidence. Upon completing the investigation, agents will share their findings with the Attorney General’s Office.